Piriformis Injection Overview

A piriformis injection is performed to diagnose and relieve symptoms caused by piriformis syndrome, which is the compression of the sciatic nerve (a large nerve that runs from the lumbar spine, through the buttocks and down the back of each leg) caused by a contraction/inflammation of the piriformis muscle. When the piriformis muscle contracts, it puts pressure on the sciatic nerve, which can result in aching, acute pain or numbness from the buttocks and down the leg. A piriformis injection delivers anesthetic and/or steroid medication directly into the piriformis, reducing inflammation and relieving the patient’s pain.

Common Questions

What are the benefits of a piriformis injection?

Piriformis injections are used to apply an anesthetic and steroid medication directly into the piriformis muscle responsible for the patient’s symptoms. A piriformis injection:

Reduces pain/symptoms

Restores range of motion

Provides easier movement for physical therapy

What are the side effects associated with a piriformis injection?

A piriformis injection typically has very few risks. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks and side effects you should know about and discuss with your SpineOne physician. Potential side effects from a piriformis injection itself are rare, but you’ll want to pay particular attention and alert SpineOne if any of these symptoms continue after 24-48 hours:

An increase in pain where needle was injected

Nausea

Dizziness

Headache that typically goes away within 24 hours

Am I a good candidate for this procedure?

A piriformis injection is a non-surgical treatment option for joint pain. A piriformis injection can be useful for providing pain relief. If you are allergic to certain medications, are on blood-thinning medication(s) or have an active infection, please inform your SpineOne physician to determine if this course of treatment is right for you.